Ahead of a busy weekend, Merseyside Police are reminding everyone that officers will be out and about to ensure residents and visitors can enjoy our city safely.
From Friday 10th to Sunday 12th December, Liverpool has been chosen to host a meeting of the G7 countries, bringing great international profile to our city.
Foreign Secretary Liz Truss will hold talks with counterparts from the world’s biggest economies, as the final event of the UK’s Presidency of the G7.
As well as the conference, large numbers of people from Merseyside and beyond are expected to head to the city centre to take advantage of our fantastic shops, restaurants and bars.
On Saturday 11th December Liverpool Football Club will also host Aston Villa at Anfield.
Ahead of the weekend, we have been working with our partners to ensure that all coming to our city, whether conference delegates, football fans or Christmas shoppers, can have a safe and enjoyable visit.
Assistant Chief Constable Rob Carden said: “With just a couple of weeks to go until Christmas, we’re expecting Liverpool city centre to be really busy this weekend with people coming to enjoy the Christmas markets, shopping and nightlife.
“This is also a historic weekend for Liverpool, as we host Foreign Ministers and G7 countries for discussions. It’s great that our city will be in the global spotlight and, rest assured, extensive security checks have been carried out and a robust policing plan has been put in place to ensure that delegates can enjoy the conference and the city during their visit.
“The force will continue to provide and effective and professional policing service across Merseyside during the conference and we are working closely with our partners to make sure that disruption to city centre visitors and residents is kept to a minimum.
“Over this weekend, visitors can expect to see a highly visible policing presence in the city centre and I would encourage people to say hello to our officers, highlight any concerns and report any incidents.
“We simply will not tolerate any of violence, antisocial behaviour or hate crimes and I would ask if anyone witnesses any of these that they speak to an officer on patrol or contact us directly.
“We know that people will be keen to enjoy our vibrant nightlife this weekend and we’re linked in with CCTV operators and we’re working closely with door staff, licensees and bar staff to help make sure you feel safe whilst enjoying a night out.
“As we’re expecting the city centre to be busy, please think ahead and plan your journey. If you’re planning on having a drink while you’re out, leave your car at home and take a taxi or public transport. Don’t risk your life and those of others by drink driving.
“Finally, but importantly, Covid cases are unfortunately on the rise across the Liverpool City Region and cases of the Omicron variant have been detected. Remember to keep your distance, wear a mask in indoor settings and stay at home and take a test if you feel unwell. Strict Covid-19 testing and isolating protocols are also in place for the G7 to keep everyone across the city safe.
“Whatever your plans are for this festive weekend enjoy yourself, look after each other and remember to report any incidents to our officers.”
Report any crime by calling 101 or via our website: www.merseysidepolice.uk
Don’t forget, reports that are not urgent can be made via @MerPolCC on Twitter or ‘Merseyside Police Contact Centre’ on Facebook.
